Party stands behind Namdhari

Daltonganj, July 5 (UNI) Jharkhand Speaker Inder Singh Namdhari, dogged by his controversial statement made against Home Minister Sudesh Mahto, today received a shot in the arm as rebel the JD(U) MLAs vowed to rally behind him in the crisis.

The two said they appreciated the 'crusade' launched by the Speaker.

The party with six MLAs, including the Speaker, is a coalition partner of the BJP-led NDA government in the House of 82, including one nominated member. The BJP has 30 members, while five Independent MLAs, including the Home Minister, were also part of the NDA.

The Speaker yesterday criticised the Home Minister, saying the latter was ''protecting criminals''.

JD(U) state party president and PHED Minister Jaleswar Mahto addressing the party workers here said all MLAs would ''fight against the Minister,'' who was ''misusing'' his position.

Leader of the party's Legislative wing and Welfare Minister Ramesh Singh Munda said people were taking advantage of their internal squabbles and asserted that they were united now.

Both Mr Mahto and Mr Munda were known detractors of Mr Namdhari but today's statetment will be a much needed relief to the Speaker.

UNI PRS SJC YA KP2035